If you are suffering from muscle pain, joint inflammation, or any old injury for a long time and are not getting relief from medicines, then ultrasonic therapy can be an effective option. But know whether this therapy is right for your problem and when to get ultrasonic therapy.

Ultrasonic therapy is a non-invasive physiotherapy technique that helps heal body tissues by using high-frequency sound waves. It is especially used to heal deep injuries of muscles and joints. In this, ultrasonic waves of 0.8 MHz to 3 MHz are sent directly to the affected area, which reduces swelling and pain by increasing blood flow to that area.

This technique involves a small device with a transducer head. It is rotated over a gel applied to the skin so that the waves can penetrate without obstruction. Ultrasound waves penetrate deep into the body and act as a micro-massage in the tissues. These waves generate heat which increases blood circulation and speeds up the body's natural healing process.

When is ultrasonic therapy done?

Dr. Sudhir Yadav of the Physiotherapy Department at Ghaziabad District Hospital explains that ultrasonic therapy is done when old injuries, muscle strain, swelling, or joint pain persist for a long time and medicines are not providing relief. This therapy is especially given during physiotherapy treatment. It is used only to heal the affected part of the body quickly.

In which diseases is ultrasonic therapy used?

1) Muscle strains and injuries – In cases of sports injuries or sudden muscle strain, this therapy helps in reducing pain and healing the muscles quickly.

2) Arthritis – Ultrasonic therapy is very useful in relieving swelling and stiffness of joints associated with arthritis. It provides relief from pain and improves movement.

3) Bursitis and tendonitis – This therapy also provides relief in case of inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sac) around the bones and tendons (tissue connecting muscles to bones).

4) Spinal disc problems – In case of injury or swelling in the disc between the bones of the waist or neck, ultrasonic waves relax the muscles there and the pain is reduced.

5) Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – This therapy is used to improve hand movement and blood flow for pressure and pain in the nerves of the hands.

6) Aids in wound healing – Even in chronic or slow-healing wounds like diabetic ulcers, ultrasonic therapy helps in quicker healing by increasing blood circulation.

Can ultrasonic therapy cause any side effects?

Generally, this therapy is considered safe, but if it is used for too long or with the wrong technique, it can cause irritation or tissue damage. Pregnant women, people with tumors or infections, and patients with serious heart problems should use it only after consulting a doctor.

Ultrasonic therapy is a scientific and effective technique to relieve pain and inflammation. It is considered a less risky, inexpensive, and convenient treatment option compared to surgery or medications. However, it should always be used under the supervision of a trained physiotherapist.